King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 32:18 Mean?
“Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and hast forgotten God that formed thee.”
Context
16
They provoked him to jealousy with strange gods, with abominations provoked they him to anger.
17
They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not. not to: or, which were not God
18
Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and hast forgotten God that formed thee.
19
And when the LORD saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons, and of his daughters. abhorred: or, despised
20
And he said, I will hide my face from them, I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very froward generation, children in whom is no faith.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(18) **Of the Rock that begat thee.**—“*The Rock hath begotten thee forgetful, and thou hast forgotten God that travailed with thee” *is another possible translation of this verse. The expression in the second clause is found also in Psalm 90:2 (a prayer of Moses), “Before the mountains were brought forth, while Thou wast yet *in travail with *earth and world, and from eternity unto eternity Thou art God!” The word which I have rendered “forgetful” is usually taken as a verb. But the *verb *is not found elsewhere (i.e., it is invented for the sake of this passage), and the word may not impossibly be an adjective.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Deuteronomy 32:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 32:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge